The struggle for gender equality and justice might still be ongoing, but every year there is a day dedicated to reflecting on progress made so far and remembering the steps still needed to be taken.
On the occasion of International Women’s Day celebrated on 8 March, organisations in Melbourne’s Greek community are running events to raise awareness and call to action.
Have a look at our list below and make sure to jot down the dates on your calendar!

FOOD FOR THOUGHT NETWORK

Launching its inaugural online seminars’ series, the Food for Thought Greek Australian Women’s Network is hosting a conversation event with an international speaker.

Greek Australian Reeny Paraskeva, Managing Director at UBS Investment Bank will be sharing her thoughts on the importance of resilience in a career and the benefits of diversity in the workplace.

A graduate of the University of Melbourne and currently based in New York since 2011, Paraskeva has 15 years of experience in the investment banking sector under her belt. More recently she launched and co-chairs a Female Development Program focused on mentorship and retention for the junior female population of UBS.

When: Sunday 3 March at 11am (Melbourne time)
Where: On your computer, tablet or mobile phone.The seminar is free but attendee licences are limited so bookings are essential.
Bookings via: https://www.trybooking.com/BAGLW by COB Thursday 28 February

GREEK DEMOCRITUS WORKERS LEAGUE

The Women’s Committee of Democritus invites all women and men in the community to attend an event exploring the issue of equality, 106 years after 8 March was established as International Women’s Day at the 2nd International Conference of Women Socialists.

Titled “Women’s equality – Which equality? What is our future? What are we struggling for? What is our aim?”, the event features a line-up of influential Greek Australian women speakers: journalist/radio producer Rena Frangioudakis, councillor of Whittlesea and president of the Ethnic Communities Council of Victoria Kris Pavlidis and vice-president of the Greek Australian Cultural League Stella Papas.

When: Sunday 10 March at 2pm
Where: Democritus Cultural Centre, 583 High Street, Northcote

ESTIA

The Hellenic Women’s Cultural Association- ESTIA will hold its annual event encouraging women to reach their potential in all aspects of their life.

Minister for Health & Minister for Ambulance Services Jenny Mikakos will be a guest speaker, while Greek Consul in Melbourne Dimitrios Michalopoulos is also expected to attend.

The event, which includes a brief presentation of the history behind the reasons 8 March is recognised and celebrated in the West, will be moderated by the president of ESTIA Mrs Angela Velos. Refreshments will also be provided

When: Sunday 3 March at 3pm
Where:The Greek Community Centre, 168 Lonsdale Street, Melbourne

SIATISTA CLUB

At the Siatista Club of Melbourne event honouring this special day, comedian-actress Mary Coustas and journalist Angela Pippos will give inspiring talks sharing details from their career journeys, including struggles and rewards that came after years of resilience, determination and passion.
Attendees will also enjoy a two-course lunch.

Tickets: $110
When: Sunday 3 March, 12pm-3pm
Where: RACV Club, 501 Bourke Street, Melbourne
Bookings via: https://www.trybooking.com/book/event?eid=464847

GREEK COMMUNITY OF MELBOURNE
The Greek Community of Melbourne (GCM) is preparing an inaugural forum marking International Women’s Day with the aim of garnering ideas to design the pathway for active participation of women in the GCM and community affairs.

The event includes guest speakers, music, art, food and wine.

When: Sunday 31 March, 11am-4pm
Where: The Greek Community Centre, 168 Lonsdale Street, Melbourne
Bookings via: http://bit.ly/gcw19

UNION WOMEN’S EVENT

The union women’s event features an open mic for women to tell their stories. The event features Koraly Dimitriadis, Amy Bodossian, Zaynab Farah and the Victorian Trade Union Choir. Admission is free.

When: Monday 4 March, 6.30pm
Where: Grace Darling Hotel, 114 Smith Street, Collingwood

POETIC MAMAS

A celebration of motherhood and the inspiration that comes attached with it. The event features Koraly Dimitriadis, Maxime Nanks, Elizabeth Skec, Brownsugarbabe and Yvette Stubbs.

When: Saturday 23 March 2pm

Where: North Fitzroy Library, 182 St Georges Road, North Fitzroy